Spirits in the Wild fundraiser is Saturday at Chattanooga Zoo

Spirits in the Wild fundraiser is Saturday at Chattanooga Zoo

Animal encounters is part of the fun at Spirits in the Wild at Chattanooga Zoo. (Chattanooga Zoo Photo)

Photo by
Contributed Photo
/Times Free Press.

Enjoy Chattanooga Zoo underneath the stars when Spirits in the Wild fundraiser is held Saturday, May 19, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the zoo, 301 N. Holtzclaw Ave.

Guests will be treated to animal encounters, learn about the zoo's future plans and conservation efforts, and groove to music by the Peter Moon Band.

The evening will include tastings of a variety of liquors, craft beers and wines, along with sampling specialties from local restaurants and eateries. Since Chattanooga Zoo is not hosting its fall event, Banana Ball, the zoo staff is adding some favorite entertainment from Banana Ball to Spirits in the Wild, such as henna art and a cigar bar and lounge.

During Spirits in the Wild, there will be sales of merchandise from the zoo's gift shop, paintings created by zoo animals, and signature event beer and wine glasses.

"This is one of our favorite times of the year at the zoo," says Darde Long, Chattanooga Zoo chief executive officer. "All the animals are excited to play outdoors in the evening, and the zoo grounds have never looked better. It is a pleasure for us to be able to share this with our local community."

Advance tickets are $50 for zoo members, $60 for nonmembers. Purchase them online at chattzoo.org/events/spirits-in-the-wild or in person at the zoo gift shop. Any tickets remaining will be sold at the door the night of the event for $60. Ticket price includes admission to the zoo, open bar, sampling food, live music and animal encounters.